“Sandwich” or “Sammich”?
- Posted in Dear Conan, English, spelling, usage
- Comments 0
Dear Conan,
This complaint (whine? rant?) has nothing to do with the written word…it is the spoken word that gets my aged hackles up.
Adult and child actors in commercials, TV news reporters, generally anyone who may utter this word within my hearing…PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE be aware that there is NO “M” IN SANDWICH! There may be meat in your sandwich; there may be lettuce, mayo, and tomato in your sandwich, but there IS NO BLOODY “M”! The word is pronounced “SAND” (as in the little grainy particles on the beach) – “WICH” not SAMMICH. There are an “N”, a “D”, and a “W” in the word “SaNDWich. The Earl would be very much displeased with this mutilated enunciation of his honorable and ancient name from which the term—and the snack itself—were derived (supposedly during a marathon card game).
Still, perhaps at my age, anything that stimulates something—even my hackles—should not be complained about!
Happy Halloween!
Jodi
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Dear Jodi,
I always enjoy your ire over the abuse of our language, whether spoken or written. It gets old Conan’s blood pumping, and for that, I thank you. Rest assured I’ve put the word out. Beware, all ye who utter “sammich.” You have been warned.
Your ally in correctness,
Conan
